How to Pack Light For a Vacation Getaway

How to Pack Light For a Vacation Getaway

With summer just around the corner, we know that many of our readers and fans are heading out on a summer getaway. To stay organized and meet those pesky airplane luggage weight limits, we know that many of you may be looking for ways that you can pack light while still having enough options for all of the adventures you’ll be going on this summer.

Prep, Prep, Prep

While it’s great to pack light, you also wouldn’t want to forget any essential items. Travel disasters can be averted in the planning stages. For example, if you’re going outside of the continental US you’re likely going to need travel adapters and your passport, plus your wallet.

Making a list of your items can help prevent over packing, by giving you an overview and visualization of how many items you’re planning on bringing. If you see a list of half your whole wardrobe, you’re likely packing too much.

Make Combinations

Choosing clothing is often the most difficult part of packing for any trip. You’ll want to tailor your clothes to the activities and weather of your destination. Going to a beach in Mexico? You’ll likely want cover-ups and lots of bathing suits. Hiking through southern China? Don’t forget the socks and hiking boots.

In addition, to pack light (and smart!) it’s best to make combinations of outfits you actually want to wear rather than thinking about items individually. Think how different tops can be made into new outfits with a different skirt or pair of jeans. In addition, adding jewelry or other accessories can help to make any outfit new again. To see how many combinations you can create, take a picture of each outfit you create. This way you always have a reference for an outfit at your fingertips.

Go for the Smaller Bag

One of the easiest ways to not over pack is by going with a smaller bag. It’s also a great way to challenge yourself to see how much you can actually under pack. Be sure to pick a suitcase that is durable and light. Before leaving for your trip try to weigh your bags to be sure you meet the weight requirements for your airline.

Prevent Duplicate Items

Have you ever brought along your hair dryer only to discover that your hotel, hostel, or Airbnb had provided one? Think of what you could have packed or brought back instead of the hairdryer you barely used! Plan for this by checking ahead to see what types of amenities the place you’re staying at has and prevent bringing unnecessary items along. You’ll thank yourself when you can bring home more souvenirs.

Toiletry Pare Down

A weekend trip down to the beach likely won’t require a full-sized bottle of conditioner, even if you’re packing for a family of four. Be sure to decant your favorite products into travel-friendly containers. In addition, especially to our female readers, look for skincare and makeup items that can do double duty. This helps to limit the items you bring and the space they take up! Should you feel the absolute need to bring or buy travel sized mascaras or other beauty products, just remember that you’ll have to store them in your home after you return.

If you’re having trouble finding clothes you want to pack in your wardrobe, be sure to bring organization to your closet! Call in the experts at Closet & Storage Concepts today to help you make the most of your summer and your home. Our local designers can’t wait to work with you.